<p>Okay, truth be told, I spent the last week feeling a bit bummed because all I wanted to do was dive back into <em><a href="https://kotaku.com/battlefield-6-bf6-open-beta-revive-medic-help-me-ea-fps-ps5-2000616628">Battlefield 2042</a>.</em> Great news! It's making a return for another open beta weekend, complete with fresh content. This is likely to boost player numbers even higher, as <em>BF 2042</em> is shaping up to be a huge success for EA, even before its official release.</p> <p>Here’s a complete rundown of the <a href="https://kotaku.com/battlefield-6-preview-destruction-classes-bf3-bf4-1851787384"><em>Battlefield 2042</em> open beta</a>, including start and end times, details about the new additions, supported platforms, and more.</p> <h2>When Does the <em>Battlefield 2042</em> Open Beta Begin and End?</h2> <p>As previously announced by EA and Battlefield Studios, the <a href="https://kotaku.com/battlefield-6-bf6-dragging-people-multiplayer-reveal-ea-1851787385"><em>Battlefield 2042</em></a> open beta is live again on all supported platforms from August 14th. This time, there's no "early access" period requiring a code. Anyone can jump in and immediately start capturing objectives and causing mayhem.</p>The BF 2042 open beta kicked off on Thursday, August 14 at 4:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) and concludes on Sunday, August 17 at 4:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time (PDT). That provides you, and over 350,000 other gamers, roughly 72 hours to experience what might be the premier online shooter of 2025. There’s always the chance EA will extend the beta – we can only hope!
What New Content is Included in the Second Weekend of the BF 2042 Open Beta?
Yes! Earlier in the week, prior to the beta’s launch, EA shared an in-depth blog post detailing the second and final beta weekend, confirming the addition of a new map and game modes. There are also adjustments to the playlist system, with new combinations and rotations throughout the beta period.
The headline addition for the second weekend is the “Empire State” map, set in New York City, ready for exploration and destruction. Having played this map at a preview event, I can say it’s a blast. Note that this NYC map isn’t a massive, sprawling one. Although the full game boasts large-scale maps, none will be available during this beta.
Also joining the beta lineup are two new modes: Squad Deathmatch and the classic Battlefield mode, Rush. I had the chance to play Squad Deathmatch at the preview event, and honestly, the small maps and CoD-style combat weren’t my cup of tea for a Battlefield experience. Rush, however, is a highly anticipated fan favorite, and I’m eager to see its return in BF 2042. Expect new beta-exclusive challenges as well.
Does the BF 2042 Open Beta Feature a Server Browser?
Unfortunately, no. However, EA has introduced a new method for finding matches and specific modes or maps within the Battlefield 2042 beta called “Custom Search.” Here’s how EA describes it:
“Custom Search allows you to create playlists of your favorite map and mode combinations. For example, if you want to play Conquest on Siege of Cairo, the matchmaking system will prioritize finding a match with that specific combination, if available. During the Open Beta, Custom Search will be available for Open Weapon mode playlists so you can mix and match maps and modes as you prefer.”
It’s essential to note that EA emphasizes that this is *not* a traditional server browser. While Portal, a distinct mode within BF 2042 featuring user-generated content, will include a server browser, the beta and the core multiplayer experience in BF 2042, at least for now, will not.
Are Players Already Cheating in the Battlefield 2042 Open Beta?
Sadly, reports of cheating emerged during the previous beta weekend. Videos surfaced online showing players using apparent wallhacks and other cheating software within the BF 2042 open beta. EA claims to have banned thousands of players and blocked countless cheating attempts, but some are frustrated by the game’s requirement of Secure Boot on PC to deter cheaters, which can be inconvenient and hasn’t completely eliminated the issue.
Personally, during my time with BF 2042 last weekend, I didn’t encounter any blatant cheating. I did, however, encounter the flick aim feature, a controversial addition that some believe is unfair and makes the game too fast-paced. The intention behind flick aim is to allow players on all platforms to assign buttons to instantly “flick” their character in a specific direction. For instance, you could assign flick backward to the down d-pad button for an instant 180-degree turn.
This is a must have setting in #Battlefield6 Flick Look allows you to achieve an instant quick 180 in combat! pic.twitter.com/ElMW1yvrhh
— TacticalBrit (@TheTacticalBrit) August 7, 2025
While the flick aiming feature divides opinion and has led to accusations, others see it as a means for console and controller players to compete against mouse users. In my opinion, flick aiming is a welcome addition, but this may change as it becomes more widely used, and I can experience how it impacts gameplay.
So, Is Battlefield 2042 Any Good?
Having played every major Battlefield title, as well as a vast library of other online shooters like Call of Duty, Counter-Strike, and Rainbow Six Siege, I can confidently say Battlefield 2042 is outstanding. If the final game matches or exceeds the beta’s quality and my preview experience, BF 2042 is destined for critical and commercial acclaim.
BF 2042’s combat is responsive and satisfying, striking a balance that avoids the frantic pace of contemporary Call of Duty titles. Soldiers feel weighty, and engagements can be drawn out, with players using cover fire and weapons that sound authentic. It successfully captures the gritty, grounded modern warfare feeling that’s been missing since Battlefield 4.
My whole week I’ve been itching to boot up BF 2042, take down some enemies, and contribute to my team’s success. Therefore, I am extremely excited that the BF 2042 open beta is available this weekend. Sadly, the full release is scheduled for October 10 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Until then, as the saying goes, “The waiting is the hardest part.”